Australian Story

Message From Mr Yunupingu

19/10/2009

Advice: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander viewers are advised that this episode contains images and voices of people who have died.

Introduced by singer Jimmy Little

As lead singer of Yothu Yindi, Mr Yunupingu was the face of one of the best known Australian rock bands in history and one of the most powerful Aboriginal voices in the country.

Yothu Yindi's unique sound, combining rock music with ancient song cycles in hits like 'Treaty' and 'World Turning' won the band critical acclaim and fans around the world.

But two years ago the music stopped when Mr Yunupingu received some news that changed his life.

Diagnosed with end stage kidney failure, he found himself powerless to fight the ravages of a disease which affects many of his people. Now he's turned his considerable voice towards a new message, documenting his own condition in the hope that it may help others. More information on kidney disease is available from Kidney Health Australia 1800 454 3639.